23 - Sectarian Communities: Religious Diversity in British America, 1730–1790

Summary

Jonathan Edwards' Faithful Narrative of the Surprising Work of God (1737), a report of religious activities during the preliminary stages of the New England revival known as the Great Awakening, introduces several aspects of sectarianism, or “the appearance of indigenous new religious cultures” that permeated the British colonies between 1730 and 1790. Written to dispel rumors of heresy and to convince Puritan Congregationalist leaders in Boston of the validity of spiritual fervor within his community, Edwards' report explains, “There has been much talk in many parts of the country, as though the people have symbolized with the Quakers, and the Quakers themselves have been moved with such reports; and came here, once and again, hoping to find good waters to fish in; but without the least success, and seemed to be discouraged and have left off coming.” Employing a derisive name to label another religious group, namely, the “Quakers”; discussing popular accusations of religious affiliation afloat at the time; and describing itinerant practices of attempted conversion, Edwards' comments present some patterns that recurred throughout the colonies with regard to these numerous “new religious cultures.” Not only were many individuals seeking religious and spiritual fulfillment in groups they believed the “true church,” but also religious leaders were working diligently to build and sustain such faith communities through their public messages. The pulpit and the press provided popular venues for leaders to defend their distinct doctrines and practices as well as to convert additional followers.